Shunta Nomura, the 27-year-old DEEP Lightweight Champion from Ehime Prefecture, is set to face Luiz Gustavo in a high-stakes lightweight clash at RIZIN.50 on March 30, 2025, at Anabuki Arena Kagawa. Known for his electrifying striking and relentless pace, Nomura represents a new wave of Japanese MMA talent poised to make an impact on the global stage. This article delves into his journey, fighting style, and why his upcoming bout promises to captivate fans worldwide.
From Karate Prodigy to MMA Contender
Shunta Nomura’s martial arts journey began at the age of 3, inspired by his older brother’s passion for traditional karate. By high school, he was already making waves, finishing fifth in the All-Japan Karate Championships. However, it was during his university years that his trajectory shifted. Watching Kyoji Horiguchi’s RIZIN fights inspired him to transition from karate to MMA.
After graduating, Nomura spent six months in Japan’s Self-Defense Forces before fully committing to MMA at age 23. His professional debut came in 2021 under the GRACHAN banner, where he showcased his striking pedigree with a unanimous decision victory. By 2022, he had moved to DEEP and quickly established himself as a force in the lightweight division, culminating in his championship victory over Kimihiro Eto in September 2024—a fight where he avenged an earlier loss with superior striking and takedown defense.
A Fighting Style Rooted in Tradition
Nomura’s fighting style is a seamless blend of traditional karate and modern MMA fundamentals:
* Striking Precision: His karate background gives him exceptional accuracy and timing. Nomura’s ability to close distance with lightning-fast combinations was on full display in his 2023 KO win over Yuki Iwakura, where he landed a perfectly timed counter punch just 2:11 into the first round.
* Footwork and Angles: Unlike many MMA fighters who rely on linear movement, Nomura uses lateral footwork to evade strikes and create openings for counters—a hallmark of traditional karate.
* Improved Wrestling: Training at BRAVE Gym has added a new dimension to his game. In his rematch against Eto, Nomura stuffed multiple takedown attempts and even initiated clinch exchanges to land knees and elbows.
Nomura himself describes his style as “karate with chaos”—a nod to the unpredictability he brings into the cage.
Why This Fight Matters
The Opponent: Luiz Gustavo
Nomura faces a formidable challenge in Luiz Gustavo, a former RIZIN title challenger known for his aggressive brawling style and knockout power. Gustavo has fought legends like Mikuru Asakura and brings international experience from Bellator MMA. This matchup pits Nomura’s precision against Gustavo’s raw power—a classic striker-versus-striker showdown that promises fireworks.
High Stakes for Lightweight Contention
With RIZIN’s lightweight division heating up, this fight could determine the next title contender. A win over an established name like Gustavo would solidify Nomura as one of Japan’s top lightweights and potentially open doors for international opportunities.
Fun Facts for our International Fans
1. Karate Roots: Nomura’s karate lineage isn’t just for show—his favorite move is the mawashi geri (roundhouse kick), which he credits for many of his amateur victories.
2. Shinya Aoki Mentorship: Training alongside MMA legend Shinya Aoki at BRAVE Gym has helped Nomura refine his grappling game while maintaining his striking edge.
3. Local Hero: RIZIN.50 marks Nomura’s first fight in Shikoku (his home region), making this event particularly special for him and his local fanbase.
4. Quick Finisher: Half of Nomura’s wins have come via KO/TKO, with two finishes occurring in the first round.
What Makes Shunta Nomura Must-Watch at RIZIN.50?
Nomura’s ability to combine traditional martial arts with modern MMA techniques makes him one of Japan’s most exciting prospects. For international fans unfamiliar with him, this fight offers a chance to witness:
* A Unique Style: His karate-based approach stands out in a sport increasingly dominated by wrestling-heavy fighters.
* Explosive Potential: With knockout power and an aggressive pace, Nomura rarely leaves fights in the hands of the judges.
* A Rising Star: At just 27 years old, he represents the future of Japanese MMA—a fighter capable of bridging tradition with innovation on the global stage.
As RIZIN continues its push for international recognition, fighters like Shunta Nomura are critical to showcasing Japan’s rich martial arts heritage while proving they can compete with—and defeat—the world’s best.
Don’t Miss It!
Catch Shunta Nomura vs Luiz Gustavo live at RIZIN.50 on March 30, 2025! Tickets are available now via eplus. For more updates:
* RIZIN Official Website
* Shunta Nomura Instagram
* Shunta Nomura Twitter
* RIZIN YouTube Channel
Sources:
1. RIZIN Official Website
2. Sherdog Fighter Profile – Shunta Nomura
3. RIZIN CONFESSIONS #173
4. DEEP Impact Records – Shunta Nomura
5. ESPN Fighter Profile – Shunta Nomura
